Homeless
From Salem Links and Lore
The city has a large unhoused population with residents either living at Lifebridge shelter or making camp somewhere around the city.
The topic of camping and encampments have been largely debated by residents and city officials. In 2024, an ordinance was passed that prohibited unsanctioned camping around the city. Councilors have raised concerns involving the ordinance and how arrest records for violating these ordinances could get individuals experiencing homelessness even farther from being able to find stable housing or work.
See Also
- Vertical File in Salem Collection - Homeless
- "Police: No-camping ordinance has been successful - Department says officers connect Salem's homeless with housing, emergency shelter when available" The Salem News, Sept 29, 2026, p. A01
